THE CHALLENGE PROCESS
The Bluegrass Challenge Academy is the premiere residential alternative education provider; developing and producing academically and socially competitive young adults who believe they can achieve their dreams.
CADET CANDIDATE
Two-week acclimation period
CADET LIFE
Five months focusing on basic lifestyle changes, approached through a rigorous program of education, training, and self-discipline.
ACADEMY GRADUATION
Successful completion of the 22-week residential program
POST-RESIDENTIAL
12-month mentorship period working towards sustained lifestyle changes, including education, employment, or military service.
Acclimation
Residential
Post-Residential
During the acclimation phase (the first two weeks), candidates will learn the military model, customs & courtesies, the cadet handbook, the rules and policies, and how to properly interact within the program. All tasks will be performed “by the numbers” through a high volume of drill instruction led by the cadre. It is highly structured, very intense, and physically demanding. We have a short period of time to teach the cadets everything they need to know to be successful.
This is when school begins. Cadets will spend each week in the classroom with daily study hall periods. We use a holistic approach to ensure that every cadet is given the chance to be academically successful. Cadets that fall behind are quickly identified and resources are made available to help them be successful. Service to Community (S2C) starts during white stage. Cadets will conduct 40 hours of service with our community partners.
By the end of Week 3 of the Residential Phase, cadets begin the development of their Post-Residential Action Plan, or PRAP. This document will serve as the foundation of their goals – short, intermediate, and long-term – that will be supported by Academy staff during the Residential Phase, and further supported by the mentor during the Post-Residential phase. The post-residential phase is dependent upon a strong mentoring relationship that provides consistent contact, encouragement, and support. The mentor serves as a listener, a guiding coach, a friendly reinforcement, and an ally through life’s experiences.
The Eight Core Components
Academic Excellence
Cadets attend academic classes that will prepare them for General Education Development (GED) credential testing, credit recovery, or high school diploma.

Life Coping Skills
Increased self-esteem and self-discipline are gained through a combination of classroom activities, group discussions, and a structured living environment.

Job Skills
Cadets prepare for long-term, gainful employment through the development of individual resumes, completing job applications, and preparation for and conduct of job interviews.

Health & Hygiene
Cadets learn the physical emotional benefits of proper nutrition through participation in classes and structures group participation.

Responsible Citizenship
Cadets learn their role in the democratic process, their rights, privileges, and obligations as United States citizens. Those who are eligible to register for selective service and to vote.

Service to Community
Cadets realize the importance of giving back to the community while performing a minimum of 40 hours of service to the community and/or conservation project activities. 

Leadership/Followership
Cadets develop strong character while identifying and applying individual moral and ethical standards to perform various roles and responsibilities in a structured group environment. 

